Table tennis paddle

ABSTRACT

A novel and useful table tennis paddle for use during the play of any racket or paddle sport but preferably table tennis is provided and includes: a blade having a head and a handle extending from the head. The blade comprises a first layer, a second layer coupled to the first layer, a third layer coupled to the second layer, a fourth layer coupled to the third layer, and a fifth layer coupled to the fourth layer. Moreover, the first layer preferably comprises three sub-layers, the second layer preferably comprises one sub-layer, the third layer preferably comprises three sub-layers, the fourth layer preferably comprises one layer, and the fifth layer preferably comprises three sub-layers.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §119(e) this non-provisional application claimsthe benefit of provisional application No. 61/399,335 filed Jul. 12,2010 and provisional application No. 61/401,131 filed Aug. 9, 2010, theentire contents of both provisional applications are herein incorporatedby reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to table tennis, also commonly referredto as ping-pong, and, more particularly, to a new and useful tabletennis paddle for use in playing table tennis.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The sport of table tennis or ping-ping, as it is commonly referred to,is most analogous to tennis. While table tennis is scored differentlythan tennis, the general objective is the same. That is, the goal oftable tennis is to strike a ball, using a racket or paddle, over a netand passed the opponent. The equipment required to play table tennis isgenerally a paddle, a table tennis ball, a table, and a net stretchedacross the middle of the table.

While a relatively young sport, table tennis has rapidly increased inpopularity around the world, especially in the United States. Essentialto one's success in table tennis is the paddle used by the player.Moreover, with the growing popularity of table tennis, there is a needfor a paddle that makes the game of table tennis easier to play and,more specifically, that provides better control of the ball during play.Traditional paddles commonly comprise a single layer, flat panel orblade that is fixed to a handle. This configuration often results in arigid paddle with a small “sweet spot,” therefore, resulting in moreerratic shots by the user and less control over the ball.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Due to the current shortcomings in this field, as outlined above, thereis a need, for a new and useful table tennis paddle that is configuredto, among other things, make the game of table tennis easier to play forits users and provide increased control over the ball.

One aspect of an embodiment is to overcome these and other drawbacks ofprevious inventions.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to make table tennis easier and moreexciting for all players at all skill levels.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and novel tabletennis paddle that makes it significantly easier for beginners to learnto play table tennis and carry on a game or rally.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and novel tabletennis paddle that allows intermediate, advanced and/or expert playersto have longer rallies and to increase the power and control of theirshots.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and novel tabletennis paddle that improves the touch and feel experienced by a playerusing the table tennis paddle while playing table tennis. The touch andfeel experienced by the player while playing table tennis with the tabletennis paddle is improved by providing the table tennis paddle with aplaying surface or outer layer that is constructed from a generally softmaterial.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and novel tabletennis paddle that improves the consistency on the whole face of thetable tennis paddle and makes approximately the entire face of the tabletennis paddle a “sweet spot.” The consistency on the whole face of thetable tennis paddle experienced by the player and the “sweet spot” ofthe table tennis paddle is improved by providing the table tennis paddlewith at least one inside layer that is constructed from a generally hardmaterial.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and novel tabletennis paddle that provides players with more surface area to strike theball. The table tennis paddle features an increased playing surface orface size, which is seven inches at its longest and six and a halfinches at its widest.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and novel tabletennis paddle that is more flexible and easier to hold.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and novel tabletennis paddle that is strong and durable yet also flexible.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle that allows most, if not all, shots to feel thesame.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle that allows for a larger margin of error on the partof the player, which minimizes errant shots.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle that allows players to make better shots withincreased control and power.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle that does not wear down the ball yet holds the balllong enough, while a shot is occurring, to give players a chance to aimthe shot and place the ball in a specific area on the other side of thenet.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle with a playing surface or face that is customizable.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle with a playing surface or face that is replaceable.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle with a handle of a particular length according tothe player's choice.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle that allows a player to utilize new types of shots.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle with a handle that is customizable.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle with a handle that makes it easier for the player tohold and maneuver the paddle.

Yet another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and noveltable tennis paddle containing a tape or ribbon attached along thecircumference or on the side surface of the blade of the paddle. Thistape or ribbon may be customizable and replaceable.

In a first non-limiting aspect of an embodiment, a paddle for use duringthe play of any racket or paddle sport but preferably table tennis isprovided and includes: a blade having a head and a handle extending fromthe head. The blade comprises a first layer, a second layer coupled tothe first layer, a third layer coupled to the second layer, a fourthlayer coupled to the third layer, and a fifth layer coupled to thefourth layer. The blade preferably comprises a first outer surface onone side of the blade and a second outer surface on the opposing side ofthe blade, whereby at least one playing surface or face of the paddle iscoupled to the first outer surface, the second outer surface or bothsurfaces. Preferably, the playing surface(s) are customizable and/orreplaceable and may be constructed from any one of the followingmaterials: sandpaper, rubber, sponge, carbon fiber, sand, diamond dust,plastic, and the like. It should be appreciated that the playingsurface(s) or face may be constructed from any material without limitingthe scope of the present invention. Moreover, the head is generally inthe shape of an oval and at its longest section (from the tip of theblade to the top of the handle) is approximately 7 inches long and atits widest section is 6.5 inches wide. Preferably, the blade furthercomprises two curvatures that extend from the head and into the handle.The handle preferably comprises two gripping members coupled to opposingsides of the handle, each gripping member having a proximal end locatedin close proximity to the blade and an opposing distal end. The proximalend of each gripping member preferably slopes in a direction toward theblade. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first layer preferablycomprises three sub-layers, the second layer preferably comprises onesub-layer, the third layer preferably comprises one sub-layer, thefourth layer preferably comprises one sub-layer, and the fifth layerpreferably comprises three sub-layers. In another non-limitingembodiment the first layer preferably comprises three sub-layers, thesecond layer preferably comprises one sub-layer, the third layerpreferably comprises three sub-layers, the fourth layer preferablycomprises one sub-layer, and the fifth layer preferably comprises threesub-layers. The first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer arepreferably constructed from a generally soft or flexible material. Forexample, the first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer may beconstructed from any of the following materials: wood, plastic,graphite, carbon fiber, and the like so that each of the layers issufficiently flexible in order to improve the touch and feel of thepaddle as experienced by the player. Moreover, the first layer, thethird layer, and the fifth layer may be constructed from any combinationof the above-listed materials. It should be understood and appreciatedthat the first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer of the paddlemay be constructed from any preferably flexible and/or soft materialwithout limiting the scope of the present invention. The second layerand the fourth layer are preferably constructed from a generally hard orsturdy material. For example, the second layer and the fourth layer maybe constructed from one of the following materials: plastic, carbonfiber, graphite, other metals, and the like so that each of the layersis sufficiently sturdy in order to improve the consistency on the wholeface of the paddle as experienced by the player and to make the entireface of the paddle a “sweet spot.” Moreover, the second and fourth layermay be constructed from any combination of the above-listed materials.It should be understood and appreciated that the second layer and thefourth layer of the paddle may be constructed from any preferablysturdy, durable, and/or generally hard material without limiting thescope of the present invention. It should also be understood thatgenerally the first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer areconstructed from a material that is softer than the material used toconstruct the second layer and the fourth layer. A ribbon or tape ispreferably coupled along at least a portion of the circumference of theblade. The tape is preferably replaceable and/or customizable. Thehandle of the paddle preferably comprises an aperture for receiving aninsert member. The insert member is preferably replaceable and/orcustomizable.

In a second non-limiting aspect of the invention, a paddle for useduring the play of any racket or paddle sport but preferably tabletennis is provided and includes: a blade having a head, and a handleextending from the head. The blade comprises a first layer, a secondlayer coupled to the first layer, a third layer coupled to the secondlayer, a fourth layer coupled to the third layer, and fifth layercoupled to the fourth layer. The first layer preferably comprises threesub-layers each constructed from a flexible material, the second layerpreferably comprises one sub-layer constructed from a sturdy material,the third layer preferably comprises one sub-layer constructed from aflexible material, the fourth layer preferably comprises one sub-layerconstructed from a sturdy material, and the fifth layer preferablycomprises three sub-layers each constructed from a flexible material.

It should be understood that the first layer, the third layer, and fifthlayer of the second non-limiting aspect of the invention may beconstructed from the same or similar materials as provided above withrespect to the first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer of thefirst non-limiting aspect of the invention. Moreover, it should beunderstood that the second layer and the fourth layer of the secondnon-limiting aspect of the invention may be constructed from the same orsimilar materials as provided above with respect to the second layer andthe fourth layer of the first non-limiting aspect of the invention.

In a third non-limiting aspect of the invention, a paddle for use duringthe play of any racket or paddle sport but preferably table tennis isprovided and includes: a blade having a head and a handle extending fromthe head. The blade comprises a first layer, a second layer coupled tothe first layer, a third layer coupled to the second layer, a fourthlayer coupled to the third layer, and a fifth layer coupled to thefourth layer. The first layer preferably comprises three sub-layers eachconstructed from a flexible material, the second layer preferablycomprises one sub-layer constructed from a sturdy material, the thirdlayer preferably comprises three sub-layers each constructed from aflexible material, the fourth layer preferably comprises one sub-layerconstructed from a sturdy material, and the fifth layer preferablycomprises three sub-layers each constructed from a flexible material.

It should be understood that the first layer, the third layer, and fifthlayer of the third non-limiting aspect of the invention may beconstructed from the same or similar materials as provided above withrespect to the first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer of thefirst non-limiting aspect of the invention. Moreover, it should beunderstood that the second layer and the fourth layer of the thirdnon-limiting aspect of the invention may be constructed from the same orsimilar materials as provided above with respect to the second layer andthe fourth layer of the first non-limiting aspect of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A further understanding of the present invention can be obtained byreference to preferred embodiments set forth in the illustrations of theaccompanying drawings. Although the illustrated embodiments are merelyexemplary of systems for carrying out the present invention, both theorganization and method of operation of the invention, in general,together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be moreeasily understood by reference to the drawings and the followingdescription. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of thisinvention, which is set forth with particularity in the claims asappended or as subsequently amended, but merely to clarify, andexemplify the invention.

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference isnow made to the following figures in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the paddle inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the paddle of FIG. 1 in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross sectional view of the paddle of FIG. 1 inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross sectional view of a second embodiment of thepaddle of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the paddle of FIG. 1 inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of the paddle of FIG. 1 in accordancewith the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention may be understood more readily by reference to thefollowing detailed description of preferred embodiment of the invention.However, techniques, systems, and operating structures in accordancewith the invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms and modes,some of which may be quite different from those in the disclosedembodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional detailsdisclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that regard, they aredeemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and toprovide a basis for the claims herein, which define the scope of theinvention. It must be noted that, as used in the specification and theappended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include pluralreferents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should alsobe noted that the words “racket” and “paddle” may be usedinterchangeably throughout. Finally, it should be noted that the words“user” and “player” may be used interchangeably throughout.

The paddle of the present invention is generally to be used for thesport of table tennis (sometimes referred to as ping-pong). However, itshould be understood and appreciated that all of the disclosed featuresand designs can be implemented into any paddle or racket used for anysport requiring a paddle or racket, without limiting the scope of thepresent invention.

The paddle of the present invention provides several features and servesmany purposes. For example, the table tennis paddle of the presentinvention makes it easier and more exciting for all players. As anotherexample, the paddle of the present invention makes it significantlyeasier for beginners to learn to play table tennis and carry on a gameor rally, and provides advanced, expert, and/or intermediate playerswith the ability to have longer rallies and hit harder shots withincreased control.

The paddle of the present invention has a specific design type, whichwill be discussed thoroughly with respect to FIGS. 1-6 below that makesit perform differently than other paddles.

One aspect of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a useful andnovel paddle that is strong and durable yet flexible. This is generallydone by providing a paddle with a blade that comprises a plurality oflayers. These layers may be constructed from different materials tocreate the desired strength and flexibility of the paddle.

Another aspect of an embodiment is to provide a useful and novel tabletennis paddle that makes the entire playing surface or face of thepaddle the “sweet spot,” meaning the ball can hit anywhere on theplaying surface of the paddle and the resulting shot will always feelthe same to the player and the improved “sweet spot” allows for a largermargin of error on the player's part, which minimizes errant shots.Thus, giving beginners more room for error and intermediate, advanced,and/or expert players the ability to make better shots with more powerand control.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like numerals indicate likeelements throughout, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of oneembodiment of a paddle 100 in accordance with the present invention.With respect to FIG. 1 there is shown a paddle 100, which includes ablade 102. Blade 102 is preferably comprised of a plurality of pre-cut,one-piece layers (not shown). However, it should be understood that thelayers do not have to be a single piece and may be comprised of severalpieces coupled or connected together, without limiting the scope of thepresent invention. As will be discussed below with respect to FIGS. 3and 4, each layer is constructed from a particular material, whichserves to create a strong and durable, yet flexible paddle. Moreover,each layer of blade 102 preferably comprises a head or head portion 104and a handle or handle portion 106 that extends from head portion 104.Again, it should be understand that head portion 104 and handle portion106 of each layer may be two separate pieces that are coupled together,without limiting the scope of the present invention. Head portion 104 isgenerally an oval shape and handle portion 106, which extends from headportion 104, is generally rectangular in shape and is generally narrowerthan head portion 104. Blade 102 further contains playing surface orface 108, which is preferably coupled to the outer surface (not shown)of blade 102. Blade 102 preferably comprises a second outer surface (notshown) and a second playing surface or face (not shown) coupled to thesecond outer surface (not shown) on the opposing side of blade 102.Playing surface 108 is preferably coupled to outer surface (not shown)using any commonly known adhesive. However, it should be understood thatany method for coupling playing surface 108 to outer surface (not shown)may be implemented without limiting the scope of the present invention.

Paddle 100 also features a face to handle ratio and neck orientation,which make paddle 100 more flexible and easier to hold. For example,head portion 104 preferably extends down further to create this effect.For example, as shown in FIG. 1, blade 102 comprises two curvatures 110and 112 that extend from the bottom of head portion 104 and into the topof handle portion 106. Curvatures 110 and 112 generally curve towardsone another and serve to narrow the bottom of head portion 104 in orderto form the top of handle portion 106.

Referring to FIG. 2, illustrated is a front view of paddle 100 inaccordance with the present invention. Paddle 100 preferably comprises aplaying surface or face 202 which is coupled to the first outer surface(not shown) of blade 102. As discussed above, blade 102 comprises headportion 104. At its longest (from tip of head portion 204 to bottom ofhead portion 206), head portion 104 is preferably 7 inches long. At itswidest (from left-most part 208 of head portion to right-most part 210of head portion), head portion 104 is preferably 6.5 inches wide. Thesedimensions provide face 202 with a large surface area to hit the ball,thus making it easier for the player to play table tennis. Larger face202 also allows a player to have longer rallies and hit harder shotswith increased control.

Also depicted in FIG. 2 is handle portion 106. As discussed above,handle portion 106 preferably extends from head portion 104. Handleportion 106 is preferably available in lengths ranging from about 4inches to about 6 inches including but not limited to 4 inches, 4 1/18inches, 4 2/18 inches, 4 3/18 inches, 4 4/18 inches, 4 5/18 inches, 46/18 inches, 4 7/18 inches, 4 8/18 inches, 4 9/18 inches, 4 10/18inches, 4 11/18 inches, 4 12/18 inches, 4 13/18 inches, 4 14/18 inches,4 15/18 inches, 4 16/18 inches, 4 17/18 inches, 5 inches, 5 1/18 inches,5 2/18 inches, 5 3/18 inches, 5 4/18 inches, 5 5/18 inches, 5 6/18inches, 5 7/18 inches, 5 8/18 inches, 5 9/18 inches, 5 10/18 inches, 511/18 inches, 5 12/18 inches, 5 13/18 inches, 5 14/18 inches, 5 15/18inches, 5 16/18 inches, 5 17/18 inches, and 6 inches. It should beunderstood and appreciated that the length of handle portion 106 can beany appropriate length, even outside the range listed above, withoutlimiting the scope of the present invention. These different lengthsallow players to pick a paddle with a handle that is perfect for themand allow a player to use paddle 100 to use shots not before seen in thesport. For example, in table tennis, with a longer handle the player maybe able to use a two-handed backhand.

Handle portion 106 further preferably comprises a first gripping member212, which is coupled to the first outer surface (not shown) of handleportion 106. Handle portion 106 also preferably comprises a secondgripping member (not shown), which is coupled to the second outersurface or opposed outer surface (not shown) of handle portion 106.Gripping members 212 and (not shown) are not part of the layers of blade102, which will be discussed in more detail with respect to FIGS. 3 and4. Gripping member 212 and gripping member (not shown) are essentiallyidentical in configuration and therefore the description of grippingmember 212 applies equally to gripping member (not shown). As such, thediscussion will be limited to gripping member 212, however it shouldunderstood that the disclosure applies equally to gripping member (notshown). Gripping member 212 is preferably constructed from wood;however, it may be constructed from any appropriate material withoutlimiting the scope of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2,gripping member 212 preferably is the same length and general shape ashandle portion 106. Gripping member 212 also preferably comprises asloped portion 214 located at the upper or top section of grippingmember 212 (part closest to face 202). Sloped portion 214 slopes in adownward direction towards blade 102 and makes paddle 100 easier to holdand maneuver. Gripping portions 212 and (not shown) are preferablycoupled to the each respective outer surface (not shown) of handleportion 106 using any commonly known adhesive. However, it should beunderstood that any method for coupling gripping portions 212 and (notshown) to the outer surfaces (not shown) of handle portion 106 may beimplemented without limiting the scope of the present invention.Moreover, it should be understood that gripping members 212 and (notshown) and handle portion 106 may be a single piece, without limitingthe scope of the present invention. Handle portion 106 and grippingmembers 212 and (not shown) may be straight and/or flared. Moreover,handle portion 106 may also feature a leather wrap or other alternativedesigns without limiting the scope of the present invention.

Gripping member 212 also preferably comprises an aperture or insetwindow 216. Inset window 216 is preferably in the shape of an oval,however it should be appreciated that inset window may be anyappropriate shape without limiting the scope of the present invention.Moreover, a graphic or insert member 218 may be inserted into insetwindow 216 to provide a graphic or design of the player's choosing topaddle 100. Graphic 218 may be inserted into either or both grippingmembers so that a graphic or design may appear on each side or bothsides of paddle 100. Graphic 218 is preferably customizable. Forexample, graphic 218 may be any of the following: a picture, a design, apainting, a symbol, a graphic, an icon, words, and the like. It shouldbe understood that graphic 218 may be any type of design withoutlimiting the scope of the present invention. Moreover, graphic 218 ispreferably replaceable, which allows a user to replace graphic 218 withanother graphic at any desired time.

Referring to FIG. 3, illustrated is a cross sectional view of paddle 100in accordance with the present invention. Paddle 100 features a blade102. With respect to FIG. 3, it is shown that blade 102 preferablycomprises 5 layers: a first layer 302, a second layer 304, a third layer306, a fourth layer 308, and a fifth layer 310. First layer 302preferably comprises three sub-layers 302 a, 302 b, 302 c each of whichare preferably constructed from wood. However, as described above, firstlayer 302 and sub-layers 302 a, 302 b, 302 c may be constructed from anygenerally flexible material, including, among other materials, thematerials disclosed above. Second layer 304 preferably comprises onesub-layer 304 a preferably constructed from carbon fiber. Again, secondlayer 304 and sub-layer 304 a may be constructed from any generallysturdy material, including, among other materials, the materialsdisclosed above. Third layer 306 preferably comprises one sub-layer 306a preferably constructed from wood. Third layer 306 and sub-layer 306 amay be constructed from any generally flexible material, including,among other materials, the materials disclosed above. Fourth layer 308preferably comprises one sub-layer 308 a preferably constructed fromcarbon fiber. Once again, fourth layer 308 and sub-layer 308 a may beconstructed from any generally sturdy material, including, among othermaterials, the materials disclosed above. Fifth layer 310 preferablycomprises three sub-layers 310 a, 310 b, 310 c, each of which arepreferably constructed from wood. However, as described above, fifthlayer 310 and sub-layers 310 a, 310 b, 310 c may be constructed from anygenerally flexible material, including, among other materials, thematerials disclosed above. This setup is generally referred as the3-1-1-1-3 configuration and gives paddle 100 the strength and durabilityof the carbon fiber without sacrificing the flexibility and give of thewood. Blade 102 makes the entire face 202 of paddle 100 the “sweetspot.” For example, most, if not all shots hit on face 202 of paddle 100will feel the same to the player. This gives beginners more room forerror and intermediate, advanced and/or expert players the ability tomake better shorts with more power and increased control.

Referring to FIG. 4 illustrated is a cross sectional view of a secondembodiment of paddle 100 in accordance with the present invention.Paddle 100 features blade 102. With respect to FIG. 4, it is shown thatblade 102 preferably comprises 5 layers: a first layer 402, a secondlayer 404, a third layer 406, a fourth layer 408, and a fifth layer 410.First layer 402 preferably comprises three sub-layers 402 a, 402 b, 402c, each of which is preferably constructed from wood. However, asdescribed above, first layer 402 and sub-layers 402 a, 402 b, 402 c maybe constructed from any generally flexible material, including, amongother materials, the materials disclosed above. Second layer 404preferably comprises one sub-layer 404 a preferably constructed fromcarbon fiber. Again, second layer 404 and sub-layer 404 a may beconstructed from any generally sturdy material, including, among othermaterials, the materials disclosed above. Third layer 406 preferablycomprises three sub-layers 406 a, 406 b, 406 c, each of which ispreferably constructed from wood. Third layer 406 and sub-layers 406 a,406 b, 406 c may be constructed from any generally flexible material,including, among other materials, the materials disclosed above. Fourthlayer 408 preferably comprises one sub-layer 408 a preferablyconstructed from carbon fiber. Once again, fourth layer 408 andsub-layer 408 a may be constructed from any generally sturdy material,including, among other materials, the materials disclosed above. Fifthlayer 410 preferably comprises three sub-layers 410 a, 410 b, 410 c,each of which is preferably constructed from wood. However, as describedabove, fifth layer 410 and sub-layers 410 a, 410 b, 410 c may beconstructed from any generally flexible material, including, among othermaterials, the materials disclosed above. This setup is generallyreferred as the 3-1-3-1-3 configuration and gives paddle 100 thestrength and durability of the carbon fiber without sacrificing theflexibility and give of the wood. Blade 102 makes the entire face 202 ofpaddle 100 the “sweet spot.” For example, most, if not all shots hit onface 202 of paddle 100 will feel the same to the player. This givesbeginners more room for error and intermediate, advanced and/or expertplayers the ability to make better shorts with more power and increasedcontrol.

With respect to FIGS. 3 and 4, all the layers are preferably connectedto each other through the use of an adhesive, such as glue. However, itshould be understood that any method of coupling the layers of FIGS. 3and 4 may be implemented without limiting the scope of the presentinvention. Moreover, while two specific configurations of blade 102 havebeen disclosed with respect to FIGS. 3 and 4, it should be appreciatedthat any number of configurations of blade 102 may be implementedwithout limiting the scope of the present invention. Such configurationsmay include, but are not limited to the following: 1-1-1-1-1, 2-2-2-2-2,1-1-2-1-1, 1-1-3-1-1, 1-2-1-2-1, 3-1-3-1-3, 2-1-2-1-2, 3-1-2-1-3,3-1-1-1-3, 3-2-3-2-3, 3-3-3-3-3. Also, while it was disclosed that thelayers may be constructed from wood and/or carbon fiber, it should beunderstood and appreciated that the layers may be constructed from anyappropriate material that may provide strength, durability, and/orflexibility to paddle 100. Such sturdy and/or flexible materials mayconsist of, but are not limited to the following: alternate woods,alternate core materials (for example, graphite, or other metals), andthe like. Specifically, the first layer, the third layer, and the fifthlayer are preferably constructed from a generally soft material. Forexample, the first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer may beconstructed from one of the following materials: wood, plastic,graphite, carbon fiber, and the like. Moreover, the first layer, thethird layer, and the fifth layer may be constructed from any combinationof the above-listed materials. It should be understood and appreciatedthat the first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer of the paddlemay be constructed from any preferably flexible and/or soft materialwithout limiting the scope of the present invention. The second layerand the fourth layer are preferably constructed from a generally hardmaterial. For example, the second layer and the fourth layer may beconstructed from one of the following materials: plastic, carbon fiber,graphite, other metals, and the like. Moreover, the second and fourthlayer may be constructed from any combination of the above-listedmaterials. It should be understood and appreciated that the second layerand the fourth layer of the paddle may be constructed from anypreferably sturdy, durable, and/or generally hard material withoutlimiting the scope of the present invention. It should also beunderstand that generally the first layer, the third layer, and thefifth layer are constructed from a material that is generally softerthan the material used to construct the second layer and the fourthlayer.

Moreover, while two 5 layer configurations of blade 102 were disclosedwith respect to FIGS. 3 and 4, it should be understood and appreciatedthat blade 102 may be comprised of three layers, whereby the first layerand the third layer (the outer layers) are preferably constructed fromone of the generally soft materials discussed above, and the secondlayer (the middle layer) is preferably constructed from one of the hardmaterials. Again, any combination of configurations of the individuallayers may be implemented in this embodiment without limiting the scopeof the present invention. Also, blade 102 may be comprised of more than5 layers.

Referring now to FIG. 5, illustrated is paddle 100 shown with playingsurface or face 202 pealed down. Face 202 is preferably constructed fromsandpaper of 150 grit. This sandpaper grit does not quickly wear downthe ball yet holds the ball long enough to give players a chance to aimshots and place the ball in a specific area on the other side of thenet. Face 202 of the paddle is preferably end-user replaceable. That is,if so desired, a user can simply peal face 202 from the outer surface502 of paddle 100 and replace it with a new face. Face 202 is preferablycoupled to outer surface 502 of paddle 100 via an adhesive, such asglue. However, any appropriate method for coupling face 202 to outersurface 502 of paddle that allows a user to replace face 202 may beimplemented without limiting the scope of the present invention. Face202 and any other replaceable face used with paddle 100 can also becustomizable. For example, face 202 may feature design(s) 504 such aspainted designs, pictures, symbols, words, icons, and the like.Design(s) 504 may be painted on face 202. However, it should beunderstood that design(s) 504 may be screened, printed, coupled via anadhesive, or added by any other method to face 202, without limiting thescope of the present invention. Face 202 may comprise any design withoutlimiting the scope of the present invention. It should also beunderstand that face 202 may be constructed from any number of materialswithout limiting the scope of the present invention. Such materials mayconsist of, but are not limited to the following: rubber, sponge, carbonfiber, sand, diamond dust, plastic, different grit sandpaper, and thelike.

While FIG. 5 only illustrates one side of paddle 100, it should beunderstood that a replaceable and/or customizable playing surface orface 202 as described above may be coupled to a second, opposing outersurface (not shown) of paddle 100 in a similar manner. As such, theabove disclosure with respect to outer surface 502, design(s) 504, andface 202 applies equally to the second, opposing outer surface (notshown) of paddle 100.

Referring now to FIG. 6, illustrated is a side view of paddle 100 of thepresent invention. Blade 102 preferably comprises a side surface 602around its circumference. Coupled around the circumference or sidesurface 602 of blade 102 is preferably a tape or ribbon 604. Tape 604 ispreferably customizable. For example, Tape 604 may comprise a design606, such as, but not limited to, a painting, words, a picture(s), asymbol(s), an icon(s), and the like. Preferably, design 606 may containany type of design without limiting the scope of the present invention.Tape 604 is preferably coupled to side surface 602 via an adhesive suchas glue so that a user may easily replace tape 604 as desired. However,any appropriate method for coupling tape 604 to side surface 602 ofblade 102 that allows a user to readily replace tape 604 may beimplemented without limiting the scope of the present invention.

As previously discussed, the face of paddle 100 is user-replaceable.Players or users will be able to remove whatever the face material is,sandpaper for example, and replace it with a new sheet of sandpaper cutto the correct size of blade 102 using the same design elements referredto herein. This user replaceable technology will also be available fromcan be implemented for any other paddle and is not limited to the paddledisclosed herein. Furthermore, the face of these paddles will alsofeature the first ever paintable and designed paddle faces. Players orusers will be able to have designs put onto the face either by painting,or any number of other manufacturing processes, for example, byscreening, printing, via adhesive, and the like. These designs willeither be available via new paddles that are already designed or throughnew sheets of the user-replaceable face to make it easier for players tocustomize their rackets or paddles. Furthermore, players will have theability to replace the face, the tape, and the window inserts of thepaddle.

Many variations of the paddle of the present invention will occurincluding but not limited to: alternative woods, alternative corematerials (for example, metals), different face materials (potential forrubber, sponge, carbon fiber, sand, diamond dust, plastic, differentgrit sandpaper and a number of other materials), different face designs,different face shapes, different handle lengths, different handlewidths, different handle designs and shapes, new colors, and designelements, new types of outside tape (including materials or design),different shapes and designs for the inset window, and different handlematerials.

Moreover, it should be understood that this invention is not limited tothe disclosed features and other similar method and system may beutilized without departing from the spirit and the scope of theinvention.

While the invention has been described with reference to the preferredembodiment and alternative embodiments, which embodiments have been setforth in considerable detail for the purposes of making a completedisclosure of the invention, such embodiments are merely exemplary andare not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumerationof all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention, therefore,shall be defined solely by the following claims. Further, it will beapparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be madein such details without departing from the spirit and the principles ofthe invention. It should be appreciated that the invention is capable ofbeing embodied in other forms without departing from its essentialcharacteristics.

1. A paddle comprising: a blade having: a head, and a handle extendingfrom the head, wherein the blade comprises a first layer, a second layercoupled to the first layer, a third layer coupled to the second layer, afourth layer coupled to the third layer, and a fifth layer coupled tothe fourth layer.
 2. The paddle as claimed in claim 1 wherein the bladecomprises a first outer surface on one side of the blade and a secondouter surface on the opposing side of the blade.
 3. The paddle asclaimed in claim 2 wherein at least one playing surface is coupled to atleast the first outer surface or the second outer surface.
 4. The paddleas claimed in claim 3 wherein the at least one playing surface isreplaceable.
 5. The paddle as claimed in claim 3 wherein the at leastone playing surface is customizable.
 6. The paddle as claimed in claim 3wherein the at least one playing surface is constructed from a materialselected from the group consisting of: sandpaper, rubber, sponge, carbonfiber, sand, diamond dust, plastic, and combinations thereof.
 7. Thepaddle as claimed in claim 1 and further comprising two gripping memberscoupled to opposing sides of the handle, each gripping member having aproximal end located in close proximity to the head and an opposingdistal end.
 8. The paddle as claimed in claim 7 wherein the proximal endof each gripping member slopes in a direction toward the blade.
 9. Thepaddle as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first layer comprises threesub-layers, the second layer comprises one sub-layer, the third layercomprises one sub-layer, the fourth layer comprises one sub-layer, andthe fifth layer comprises three sub-layers.
 10. The paddle as claimed inclaim 1 wherein the first layer comprises three sub-layers, the secondlayer comprises one sub-layer, the third layer comprises threesub-layers, the fourth layer comprises one sub-layer, and the fifthlayer comprises three sub-layers.
 11. The paddle as claimed in claim 1wherein the first layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer areconstructed from a material selected from the group consisting of: wood,plastic, graphite, carbon fiber, and combinations thereof.
 12. Thepaddle as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second layer and the fourthlayer are constructed from a material selected from the group consistingof: plastic, carbon fiber, graphite, and combinations thereof.
 13. Thepaddle as claimed in claim 1 and further comprising a tape coupled alongat least a portion of the circumference of the blade.
 14. The paddle asclaimed in claim 13 wherein the tape is replaceable.
 15. The paddle asclaimed in claim 13 wherein the tape is customizable.
 16. The paddle asclaimed in claim 1 wherein the handle comprises an aperture forreceiving an insert member.
 17. The paddle as claimed in claim 16wherein the insert member is replaceable.
 18. The paddle as claimed inclaim 16 wherein the insert member is customizable.
 19. A paddlecomprising: a blade having: a head, and a handle extending from thehead, wherein the blade comprises a first layer, a second layer coupledto the first layer, a third layer coupled to the second layer, a fourthlayer coupled to the third layer, and a fifth layer coupled to thefourth layer, and wherein the first layer comprises three sub-layers,the second layer comprises one sub-layer, the third layer comprises onesub-layer, the fourth layer comprises one sub-layer, and the fifth layercomprises three sub-layers.
 20. A paddle comprising: a blade having: ahead, and a handle extending from the head, wherein the blade comprisesa first layer, a second layer coupled to the first layer, a third layercoupled to the second layer, a fourth layer coupled to the third layer,and a fifth layer coupled to the fourth layer, and wherein the firstlayer comprises three sub-layers, the second layer comprises onesub-layer, the third layer comprises three sub-layers, the fourth layercomprises one sub-layer, and the fifth layer comprises three sub-layers.